Just when we thought that the James Harden trade drama was about to end, the former MVP decides to pull off a risk-it-all type of move to ensure that he gets his wish of leaving the Philadelphia 76ers. By calling the Sixers’ president Daryl Morey a “liar” and declaring his desire never to play for him ever again, Harden pretty much burned any bridge leading back to Philly.
The Los Angeles Clippers is Harden’s preferred destination, and they still seem to be the frontrunners to land the 10-time All-Star. However, in a bold trade proposal, the Los Angeles Lakers come in at the 13th hour to hijack the deal from their cross-town rivals.
Los Angeles Lakers Form Fearsome Big 3 With James Harden
James Peircey of the NBA Analysis Network imagines a sensational scenario wherein the Lakers make a move for James Harden. Here are the details of the proposed trade:
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, F Rui Hachimura
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G James Harden
For the Lakers, adding a guy like James Harden is an undeniably massive risk. Not only is he on an expiring contract, but as we’ve seen over the past few years, he brings a lot of drama to the table. At 33, Harden is also no longer the dominant superstar he once was.
In spite of all the potential pitfalls, however, adding Harden is the type of win-now move that can benefit the Lakers significantly. LA will be able to form a Big 3 featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Harden, which on paper, is easily going to be one of the most fearsome trios in the NBA.
Harden’s elite playmaking skills could be a great fit alongside Davis, while also easing the playmaking burden from LeBron. Moreover, James gets another weapon around him who is not only capable of scoring in a catch-and-shoot situation but one that can also create his own shot.
Sixers Pair D’Angelo Russell With Tyrese Maxey in New Dynamic Backcourt
For the Sixers, the biggest upside for them is that they finally get rid of a disgruntled James Harden. In exchange, they get a former All-Star point guard in D’Angelo Russell, who’s under contract through 2025. Philly can use him extensively in pick-and-roll situations with Joel Embiid, while also forming a one-two backcourt combination between Russell and Tyrese Maxey.
Rui Hachimura was a revelation for the Lakers as well last season, and he could slip into the Sixers’ starting five along with Embiid and Tobias Harris in the frontcourt. The 25-year-old has also proven that he can play off the bench, making him a valuable asset for Philly not only this season but potentially, for the years to come.
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